'I have fallen for this new girl in office...'

Dear Diana,I am in love with an office colleague. She joined two months ago and it was love at first sight. I can't take my eyes off her and she has often caught me staring at her. She is young and pretty. Her enthusiasm is infectious. I am 32 and single. She appears to be 23 and it is her first job. We speak off and on, but I want to get to know her well. How do I go about it? Should I just stay friends with her for now? I want to step out with her for lunch, but am afraid to ask. At the same time, I am scared one of the younger guys in the office will hook up with her. I am desperate to know her and at the slightest excuse want to have a conversation with her. It does not appear that she cares for me and even refers to me as Sir. How do I drop hints that I am interested in her? At the same time, I do not want to sound desperate.— Brajesh

Illustration/Uday Mohite

Dear Brajesh,From the way you are going on about her, you sound desperate to know her. One wrong step and you will be the butt of office gossip. There is also the risk of causing an upheaval in your professional life if you go too fast, too soon with her. From what you have said, it does not appear the girl is interested in you. But at the same time, there is no harm in striking a friendship with her. There is no dearth of office subjects to talk about with her. You seem to be charmed by her beauty and her enthusiasm, but you do not know what is on her mind. If you are hopelessly in love with her, first make her your pal, but tread with caution. Remember one wrong step and it will cost you your job. So go slow, just get to know her first and stop dreaming about a future together with her for now.